Our Civic Duty Association of Zambia (OCIDA) has called upon the United States Government to impose targeted sanctions on specific officials of the Zambian Government. In a press release attributed to OCIDA Chairman, Emeritus Archbishop Telesphore Mpundu, follows growing concerns over the erosion of democracy and human rights in Zambia, particularly under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration and highlights key individuals whose conduct has been deemed detrimental to democratic principles.
OCIDA’s appeal focuses on seven government officials, including Police Inspector General Graphel Musamba, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwiimbu, Speaker of the National Assembly Nellie Mutti, Chief Justice Mumba Malila, Director of Public Prosecutions Gilbert Phiri, Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, and President Hakainde Hichilema himself. The association accuses these officials of various actions, such as suppressing opposition activities, disregarding the rule of law, and undermining democratic institutions.
Specific allegations include the prohibition of opposition party meetings, arbitrary arrests of opposition leaders, unconstitutional changes in parliamentary leadership, and interference with the judicial process. OCIDA contends that these actions not only violate democratic rights such as freedom of assembly and association but also jeopardize the integrity of Zambia’s democratic system.
Archbishop Telesphore Mpundu has further emphasised the urgency of imposing sanctions as a means to deter further violations and promote accountability.
